Hockey fans often cheer for the thrill of the game, but sometimes it’s not just about the sport.
A devoted New York Islanders supporter, Lisa Orlando, has taken on the role of the team’s unofficial “cookie lady,” a title she earned after the team showed compassion toward her son, who sadly passed away.
The 58-year-old mother from Long Island began this sweet tradition after losing her 38-year-old son, Jason, to cancer in 2022. She now brings between 100 to 200 homemade cookies to multiple home games at UBS Arena, sharing them with fans, staff, and even broadcast crews.
Orlando remembers how the team accommodated Jason during his illness. “His health was rapidly declining,” she shared. “Though our seats were pretty close to the ice, he couldn’t quite make it down there, so the Islanders kindly provided a handicap seat for him.”
As a gesture of gratitude for their kindness, Orlando initially brought some baked goods to the team. “They seemed to enjoy what we brought in, which led to them placing some orders. It blossomed into a wonderful relationship,” she noted.
“People have been so generous to us, and we want to give back as much as possible,” she added, marking the start of a heartwarming tradition in hockey.
Along with her husband, Eric, and daughter, Brittany, Orlando stands on the concourse once a month to hand out free Islanders-themed merchandise, especially around the holidays. They also share cookies with ushers, parking attendants, and the game announcers.
Preparing the cookies takes a significant amount of time; she often spends five hours baking. Over three seasons, she estimates her expenses for supplies, packaging, and stickers have ranged from $35,000 to $45,000.
Interestingly, she keeps track of the team’s performance on the days she brings cookies. According to her records, the Islanders have won five out of seven games during her cookie days, bringing her personal tally to 15 wins and 6 losses.
“In the past two years alone, we’ve probably baked about 40,000 cookies,” she mentioned, while also starting a side baking business called For the Love of Frosting as a way to cope with her loss.
After Jason’s passing, the team showed their support by sending flowers to Orlando’s home, which she appreciated deeply. “They treat us like people,” she remarked. “We’re not just numbers to them; our lives matter.”
Moreover, the Islanders have also ordered treats for special events and celebrations, showcasing their ongoing relationship with Orlando’s family.
To add a personal touch, they include creative designs on the cookies and even QR codes for various occasions. There was even a special sign in Russian for goalie Ilya Sorokin, indicating that he could indulge without compromising his diet.
Orlando reflected on how excited Sorokin was to receive the cookies. “He really looks forward to them,” she said with a smile.
Interestingly, Orlando’s connection with the Islanders is not new; she recalls reaching out to the team during the 1980s Dynasty era when her sister underwent heart surgery. Former player John Tonelli visited her sister, which made a lasting impact on their family.
Over time, Orlando and her family have become somewhat of a fixture among the fan community, especially after appearing in a well-received promotion. “People get excited to receive cookies, and I often wear a custom ‘Cookie Lady’ jersey at the games,” she shared.
She’s even extended her goodwill beyond home games, providing treats to opposing teams’ fans as well. For example, during a recent match against the Calgary Flames, visiting fans were a bit apprehensive at first but soon enjoyed the cookies.
Across the board, her baked goods have resonated particularly well with fans facing health challenges, as many share their own stories with her. “Everyone has their own journey. If I can bring a little joy during tough times, it really means a lot,” she concluded.
